I received this as a wedding gift in summer of 1999. Since then have averaged 2.5 uses per day. Thats over 10,000 "pulls". When I think it is ready for the recycle I am able to repair it for only a few dollars and it goes for another 3 years. The relief valve attached to the steam unit wears out every 3 years so i buy two at a time, they are only $5 each last I checked from Seattle Espresso Repair. We have relatively soft water in Seattle so no real scale buildup which I am sure prolonged its life. Its not fancy but makes good espresso if you are in tune with the grind and style of coffee used.

Buying Experience

It was a gift so cant comment on that. I would consider a gift a "great" buying experience.